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Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki is a dynamic metropolis that’s rich in history but often overlooked by visitors to the country. It lies on the shores of the Thermaic Gulf in northern Greece, with views across the bay to the legendary Mount Olympus. Founded in 315 BCE and named after the half-sister of Alexander the Great, a thriving student population and cosmopolitan attitude make the city a lively stop, while the many historic landmarks you’ll come across when strolling its streets provide a tangible link to its fascinating past.

You’ll see Thessaloniki’s diverse cultural influences throughout its architecture, from the soaring White Tower built by the Ottomans to the mosaic-adorned Roman Rotunda that later became a Christian church and then a mosque. You can also taste these influences by sampling the regional dishes on offer, and Thessaloniki’s status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy is testament to its enviable culinary scene that blends Greek, Balkan, and Turkish influences.

Things to see & do in Thessaloniki

Stroll the vibrant city streets

Whether on a tour or under your own steam, Thessaloniki is both easy and pleasant to explore on foot. You could climb to the top of the 15th-century White Tower to admire the view over the city and Thermaic Gulf, or head to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki to discover more about ancient Greek history and culture. Aristotelous Square with its statue of the renowned philosopher is a great place to people watch over coffee, while the winding lanes of Ano Poli (the old town) have plenty of restaurants, churches, and preserved houses to discover.

Step into in the home of the gods

The highest mountain in Greece, Mount Olympus was once believed to be the home of Zeus and 12 other Greek gods. Today, you can explore its thickly forested slopes yourself via a variety of winding trails. Get picked up from your hotel and take a 90-minute drive from Thessaloniki for a guided hike along the Enipeas Gorge, at the base of the mountain. Here, you’ll stroll beneath the trees, stop to sample the local tea beside a tumbling waterfall, and visit the Saint Dionysios Monastery with its Holy Cave chapel carved directly into the rock.

Trace the roots of Alexander the Great

Echoes of this former king of Macedonia can be found across the Thessaloniki region. To learn more about Alexander the Great and his life, you can take a private tour of key ancient sites. You’ll visit the excavated city of Pella, where he was born, before driving south to Vergina. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll explore intact royal tombs, including the burial spot of Alexander’s father, Philip II, with all its treasures. Throughout the tour, your guide will tell you more about the royal court of Macedonia and its significance in shaping the country.

Best time to visit

While you can visit Thessaloniki year round, we recommend going between June and September. This is when the weather is warmest — up to 32 C (90 F) in July — with sunny days and a minimal chance of rain. The city occasionally sees snow in January and February, but generally winters are mild, with an average temperature of 10 C (50 F).